affectionate look

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "affectionate look" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a gaze that conveys warmth, love, or fondness towards someone or something. Example: "She gave him an affectionate look that made his heart skip a beat."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

It's an affectionate look at those people really.

The New York Times - Arts

So writes The Guardian's Stephen Dixon in today's affectionate look back at his work.

The Guardian

She gives him an affectionate look: "I don't know why, but you respect my opinion".

The Guardian - Film

It is a sardonic yet affectionate look at the hazards of our unwritten constitution.

The Guardian - Books

The prolific Ackroyd begins what is billed as a six-volume history with an affectionate look at England's remote past.

The New York Times - Books

"He (Hitler) smiled very pleasantly and indeed had a sort of appealing and affectionate look in his eyes.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

Douglas Fraser calls it "one of the most affectionate looks at movie making".

The Guardian - Film

Mrs Nadir, 28, has been by her husband's side throughout the trial and exchanged affectionate looks as he stood in the dock.

Independent

Mother's Warmth was rated according to the mother's expressed positive affect towards the child, physically and verbally (e.g., smiles, hugs, affectionate looks, comments directed at the child expressing joy in the interactions).

Plosone

This book, written by a company insider and games expert, is a slender, affectionate retrospective look at the firm's glory years, combined with a mournful account of its decline, including some well-aimed digs at those responsible.

The Economist

Ms. Glorsky took the stage on video in Nuria Olive-Belles's "Voice Amidst the Wings," an affectionate, revealing look at the woman, her profession and the dance history she has witnessed firsthand in her 40 years on the job.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "affectionate look" to describe non-romantic fondness between friends, family, or even towards pets to clearly convey warmth without implying romantic intent.

Common error

While generally acceptable, avoid using "affectionate look" in highly formal or professional writing. Opt for more neutral language to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "affectionate look" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where the adjective "affectionate" modifies the noun "look". It describes the quality of the look, indicating that it is filled with affection. Ludwig examples show its use in describing both interpersonal gazes and broader views of subjects.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Science

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "affectionate look" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to describe a gaze filled with warmth and fondness. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s appropriate for general use, though perhaps less common in strictly formal or scientific writing. Primarily found in news media, encyclopedias, and general online content, it conveys a sense of positive emotion and connection. While perfectly acceptable, considering synonyms like "loving gaze" or "tender glance" can add nuance or formality to your writing. Remember to use the phrase to clearly signal warmth, particularly in contexts where romantic intent should be avoided.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

loving gaze

Emphasizes the intensity and depth of the affection conveyed through sight.

tender glance

Highlights the gentleness and care in the way someone looks at another.

warm gaze

Suggests a feeling of comfort and emotional heat in the look.

fond expression

Focuses on the overall facial display of affection, not just the eyes.

caring gaze

Highlights the element of concern and attentiveness in the look.

adoring look

Implies a deeper level of admiration and reverence in the way someone is viewed.

gentle stare

Emphasizes prolonged and soft look.

sweet expression

General facial gesture, less focus on the eyes.

sympathetic gaze

Highlights feelings of compassion and understanding in the look.

benign look

Expresses kindness and harmlessness in the way of looking.

FAQs

How can I use "affectionate look" in a sentence?

You can use "affectionate look" to describe a gaze filled with warmth and fondness, for example: "She gave her grandfather an affectionate look as he told stories of his youth".

What are some alternatives to "affectionate look"?

You can use alternatives like "loving gaze", "tender glance", or "warm gaze" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "affectionate look" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "affectionate look" might be too informal for certain formal contexts. Consider using more neutral terms to maintain a professional tone.

What's the difference between "affectionate look" and "sweet look"?

"Affectionate look" specifically implies fondness or warmth, while "sweet look" can suggest kindness, innocence, or charm in addition to affection.